Team WS Spotlight: Tori Doak’s Irish Training Adventure

Meet Tori Doak, a 26-year-old eventer and showjumper based in Wallaroo, NSW. With over two decades of competitive riding under her belt, Tori’s journey has taken her from grassroots events to FEI 3*, and last year, competing (and winning!) in Ireland.

From Australia to Ireland: Training with Top Riders

In June last year, Tori travelled to Europe for a multi-stop adventure that began with a two-week riding stint in Ireland, followed by her cousin’s wedding in London and some well-earned downtime in Paris and Greece.

The idea started simply - combine family travel with a chance to ride overseas. Tori reached out to fellow Aussie Jake Hunter at Duffy Sport Horses, and to her delight, was welcomed into the team.

Tori and Mark at the Cavan Summer Show, in full Wilma Sport gear. Photo supplied by Tori. Photographer: Evrlast Media

A typical day started with a full Irish breakfast (black pudding: tried once, never again) followed by schooling, jumping or hacking horses at the yard, often in a compact indoor arena which is a whole new feel compared to Australia.

“I got to ride as many horses as I wanted each day, and even competed at a four-day show,” Tori shares. “Jake really took me under his wing. His style is simple, effective, and it was refreshing to see most horses go in snaffles.”

She also trained with Jean Gill, the Duffy team’s head trainer, and watched top Irish riders like Michael Pender (ranked 29th in the world at the time) and riders from the Army Equitation School, at the Cavan Summer Show.

The highlight? Winning her first class on a lease horse named Mark.

“I took the most wild short turn of my life that no one else took - and it paid off! I won by a few seconds.”

Tried & Tested: Tori’s Wilma Sport Picks

Packing smart is essential when travelling, and Tori made sure to bring her full Wilma Sport kit for the trip.

“I used all of my Wilma Sport pieces: the show shirt, Aero Show Jacket, breeches, hoodie and raincoat.”

With Ireland experiencing unseasonably warm weather, Tori was especially thankful for the Aero Show Jacket:

“It was so hot and I wouldn’t have been able to wear a normal jacket. The Aero was a lifesaver, it was so breathable but still looked professional. I even got a few compliments on how lightweight and sharp the shirt and jacket looked!”

Must-pack favourite?

“The Aero Show Jacket: I would've melted without it!”

Tori exploring the Irish countryside. Photo supplied by Tori.

What's Next for Tori?

With her two top mares recently sold, Tori is shifting focus to Indie, her up and coming young mare she’s excited to develop.

She’ll be spending the next few months building Indie’s confidence through local competitions, flatwork, and XC clinics, with a steady, no-pressure approach.

“It’s all about giving her the right foundations now so she’s ready to step up later. I’m really enjoying the process of bringing her on.”

Stay Tuned

We’re so proud to have Tori as part of the Team Wilma Sport and can’t wait to follow along her journey with Indie.

Discover the gear Tori swears by: Shop the Competition Collection